10 facts you might not know about security companies

Few businesses take on more responsibility or risk than security companies, supplying organisations and individuals with security guards, CCTV, and a variety of other services to keep them safe.

If you are looking to protect yourself, or your company, look no further than a professional SIA licenced security company.

Whilst most people know, or could guess, that security companies help to protect against criminal activity and a variety of other health and safety threats, they are unaware of exactly what it is that they do on a day-to-day basis.

Over time, security companies can save you a huge amount of money, but hiring them to protect your site is still a significant investment and it is important to do your research before you commit to a certain firm.

To help you build a better picture of what to expect from a security company, here are 10 interesting facts that you might not know about their services.

1)    Security guards need a licence

Anyone in the UK who wants to work in the security industry requires a licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA are responsible for ensuring high standards in the private security industry and to acquire a licence an individual must undergo extensive training on various aspects of security work.

It is illegal to provide guarding services without an SIA licence and hiring un-licenced security guards Leeds will compromise your security and could land you in murky legal waters.

2)    Security guards don’t need a degree

There are no minimum requirements for entering the security industry, meaning you need to be careful which company you choose. Some of the best security guards are ex-servicemen or policemen who fancied a career change where they could still utilise their unique skillset.

Whilst no set criteria are required to enter the industry, SIA licensing does ensure a certain level of expertise for those carrying out security work.

3)    Security companies work 24/7

Security companies provide round the clock services with no set working hours or closing times. In fact the majority of their services are most effective at night where other businesses are closed and crime rates are highest.

This means that if you need your security company at any time of the day or night, they will be there to take your call.

4)    They can provide non-security services

Once on your site security guards can do much more than security protection alone. Security guards are often stationed at the front desk or gate and asked to perform certain concierge duties such as dealing with customer enquiries and directing visitors to the appropriate part of the premises.

5)    You don’t have to hire them full-time

Many people avoid using professional security as they believe it is simply too expensive. Round the clock manned guarding, whilst effective, can certainly be pricey, but there are a huge range of cheaper options that will still ensure the safety of your site.

Key holding response, for example, involves a security company looking after a set of your keys, monitoring your alarm system and dealing with any emergency situations should they occur.

6)    They can conduct searches

Security guards have the ability top search people and bags on the way into buildings and events to ensure that they are not carrying any unauthorised goods.

Some security companies provide canine units to assist with this will utilise their enhanced and highly trained sense of smell to identify illicit substances such as drugs, explosives, and more.

7)    They are trained to de-escalate dangerous situations

As a part of their SIA licencing, security guards must train in and pass modules on conflict resolution, allowing them to de-escalate highly charged situations before they get out of control. This is a major asset for event venues, especially those involving the selling of alcohol where aggressive behaviour is more likely.

8)    Security guards can monitor CCTV

CCTV can be an incredibly effective tool against potential intruders, but only if it is in the right hands. Security guards will utilise your property’s CCTV system to identify threats and be on the scene as soon as possible. The footage from your cameras can also be used by the police to identify and charge those responsible.

9)    They can help train your staff

Promoting appropriate health and safety practices is the key to a safe and happy workplace. Security guards will help you to educate your staff on best practice in terms of security, including evacuation protocol and more.

10) Security guards can make a citizen’s arrest

If an intruder is identified on your premises and apprehended by a security guard, they have the right to detain them until the police have arrived. Security guards are not the same as the police and cannot take action against the intruder themselves but are an invaluable part of ensuring that criminals are brought to justice.